87. Edge Systems Thinking: Navigating Innovation Paradoxes
May 7, 2025
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Jaspar Roos, a member of the European Commission's OISP innovation group and founding partner of the Human and Tech Institute, discusses the transformative power of ecosystemic models in governance and innovation. He reveals that 80% of employees remain disconnected from innovation efforts, often leading to wasted AI investments. Highlighting the 'water cooler effect,' he explains how informal interactions can spark creativity. Roos advocates for rekindling human connections in the AI era and using humor to foster collaboration, breaking traditional norms to drive real change.
Boundary zones in organizations are crucial for innovation, as they foster creative interactions that challenge traditional operating norms.
The 'water cooler effect' illustrates the significance of informal employee interactions, which enhance creativity through neurochemical processes.
Addressing and discussing corporate taboos can unlock innovation potential, enabling organizations to transform fear into breakthrough ideas.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Ecosystemic Models
Ecosystemic models are increasingly influencing various sectors including society, industry, economy, and policy, pushing for the development of resilient futures. These models are dynamic and restructuring traditional boundaries in ways that encourage innovative governance and network orchestration. The digital nature of today’s interconnected world demands a reevaluation of how systems interact, emphasizing the importance of incentive structures and collaboration. As companies and organizations embrace these models, they are learning to navigate complexities and foster sustainable growth.
Jasper Ross: A Profile in Innovation
Jasper Ross's unique approach to innovation stems from his diverse background in both the creative and analytical realms, stemming from his heritage and personal experiences. His journey from traditional banking to becoming a thought leader in corporate innovation highlights the duality of creativity and analytics he embodies. By leading over 100 projects in various industries, he has sought to challenge conventional norms, fostering cultures that prioritize human-driven innovation. His roles, including 'Chief Inspiration Officer,' reflect his commitment to encouraging creativity and breaking away from stale practices.
Overcoming Innovation Roadblocks
Organizations frequently encounter several roadblocks to innovation, including the perception of innovation as mere theatre and existing corporate taboos. The fear of failure often leads to a reluctance to explore radical ideas, causing stagnation within established institutions. Ross emphasizes the need for companies to recognize and address these taboos, as uncovering and discussing fears can lead to significant breakthroughs in innovation. By restructuring perspectives and creating a supportive environment, organizations can unlock potential and drive meaningful change.
Learning from Unconventional Markets
Exploring unconventional markets such as the adult entertainment industry and illegal sectors can often yield valuable insights for innovation. These markets frequently adapt quickly to consumer needs and seize opportunities where more traditional sectors hesitate. Ross points out that examining these 'taboo' areas can inspire new ideas and innovative practices that add value in mainstream contexts. By drawing lessons from these edgy environments, organizations can foster a more tangible connection to their consumer base and respond effectively to shifting societal norms.
Creating a Culture of Serendipity and Playfulness
The integration of humor and playfulness into corporate culture can significantly enhance innovation and collaboration among teams. Organizations that create spaces for informal interactions—akin to a modern 'water cooler' effect—facilitate the serendipitous encounters that spark creativity. Ross advocates for incorporating playful elements, such as stickers and games, as methods to break down barriers and encourage open communication. Such initiatives not only enhance team dynamics but also foster an environment where employees feel empowered to take risks and innovate without fear of failure.
How do boundary zones fuel innovation breakthroughs in complex organizations?
Join host Marco Annunziata as he welcomes Jaspar Roos, a member of the European Commission's OISP innovation group and founding partner of the Human and Tech Institute. With MIT credentials in AI Strategy and implementation experience with ISO56001 innovation frameworks, Jaspar examines how ecosystemic models are reshaping societal governance and network orchestration systems.
This conversation explores how 80% of employees, typically outside headquarters, remain disconnected from innovation initiatives, despite organizations investing heavily in AI and digital transformation. Jaspar presents neuroscientific evidence on how the "water cooler effect" creates cognitive transformation: when employees step away from structured work environments, dopamine release facilitates relaxation, leading to the serendipitous interactions that drive breakthrough thinking.
Innovation Paradox: 95% of non-tech companies investing in AI will generate no meaningful ROI despite significant expenditure
Neuroscience Insight: Water cooler interactions trigger dopamine releases that neurologically prime employees for breakthrough thinking
Organizational Blindspot: Top-down innovation efforts fail because 80% of frontline employees lack access to digital transformation tools
Edge Systems Theory: Most disruptive innovations emerge at ecosystem boundaries where traditional operating norms converge
Metrics Gap: Traditional innovation KPIs measure activity rather than impact, creating "innovation theater" without economic transformation
Analyzing case studies from his portfolio of digital innovation projects, Jaspar reveals the dialectical tension between conformity and transformation. He examines how successful organizations like Amazon implement synchronous communication protocols to overcome innovation paradoxes, while drawing parallels to the Swift financial network's transformation. This episode offers a systems-thinking approach to understanding how innovation emerges at ecosystem boundaries where traditional operating norms are being replaced with new economic engines for the digital era.
